The “magic” found in some (but not all) classic vintage pickups
was created by accident. Don’t let anyone tell you different.
And over time, some pretty stellar accidents happened. The
only way to recreate that magic is to study more than a few
exceptional examples of all the classic pickup types, while
acquiring a thorough understanding of exactly what materials
were used and precisely how each pickup was constructed and
wound. Only then is the “magic” repeatable, if you are willing to
spend the time and money required to chase the dragon. I am.

I personally design and wind over 30 different pickup models,
including all the vintage classics, many obscure works of art
known only to lap and pedal steel players like Robert
Randolph, and even a few of my own designs that never
existed in the past.